Friday Night follows the experiences of Claire, a mother who becomes caught up in city-wide attack while visiting her daughter, a student in France. Finding herself in a strange place and unable to speak the language, she begins a desperate night-time search to find her daughter and ensure her safety.

Interview with Writer/Director Alexis Michalik

*

Congratulations! Why did you make your film?

Thanks! Well, the film is part a program called Lexus short films. Basically, Lexus and The Weinstein Company allow a few lucky young filmmakers the ways to direct the short film of their life, and I was one of those lucky filmmakers. Originally, I had an other film in mind, but then, attacks happened in Paris (my hometown). And after a few days, I realised I could not tell another story than this one. Thankfully, Lexus and TWC got on board.

Imagine I’m a member of the audience. Why should I watch this film?

Because if you don't, your teeth will fall out and you will never sleep again.

How do personal and universal themes work in your film?

Well, this movie is really about how in a situation of anticipation, of danger, we react by reaching out to our loved ones. Claire, an American woman, finds herself in a foreign country looking for her daughter in a time of crisis. It's about these little moments when you lose sight of someone you really care for. Could be in a supermarket, a crowded event, a country at war or after a tsunami. I believe that in these moments you reveal your true nature: if you care about that person, wether it's your kid, parent, loved one, nothing else matters that finding him/her.

Friday Night

How have the script and film evolved over the course of their development and production?

Not much, to be honest. The writing/production/shooting/editing was incredibly fast, covering a total period of less than 3 months, from the original idea to the final product. Which is, of course, very rare in the short filmmaking world. Again, thanks to Lexus.

What type of feedback have you received so far?

Pretty good, I guess - I've only seen it once with an audience. The subject is kind of a touchy one, but so far, people are pretty moved at the end, so I guess that's the purpose I was ultimately looking for.

Has the feedback surprised or challenged your point of view?

Not really. Then again, my point of view has nothing bold or crazy, it's pretty universal.

What are you looking to achieve by having your film more visible on www.wearemovingstories.com?

Just happy to share it.

Who do you need to come on board (producers, sales agents, buyers, distributors, film festival directors, journalists) to amplify this film’s message?

I guess journalists would be very kind to write about the film.

Friday Night

What type of impact and/or reception would you like this film to have?

It would like people to be moved by it the way I was.

What’s a key question that will help spark a debate or begin a conversation about this film?

We Are Moving Stories embraces new voices in drama, documentary, animation, TV, web series and music video. If you have just made a film - we'd love to hear from you. Or if you know a filmmaker - can you recommend us? More info: Carmela